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Preschool-aged children are often impatient and get bored easily. Many parents find that handing their child a smartphone or tablet is an easy way to soothe or entertain them when they get antsy. While letting your preschooler enjoy some screen time when you need to buy a few minutes of distraction is definitely acceptable, overall screen time limits are important for younger children.
Preschoolers are at the age where they will be learning important social interaction skills and they won’t get the proper chance if their head is buried in a two-dimensional screen for hours on end. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than 2 hours of screen time per day for young children. This includes more than TV, in our tech-savvy world. Streaming videos, games, apps, or computers are all considered screen time and should be limited just as you would a TV.
Why is it important to set screen time limits?
Studies have shown that preschoolers who have too much screen use in early childhood can develop language delays, have trouble in school, are at risk for obesity and language issues, and more. In order to avoid these issues, parents should plan out their child’s screen time each day so that media use doesn’t start to displace other important learning activities.
What is OK for my preschooler to watch?
Any show with violence or mature material isn’t appropriate for young kids, but research has shown that preschoolers can learn from educational television shows like Sesame Street or Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood. Educational and engaging children’s programs can help children to better in school and stay or exceed grade-level activities. Programs, apps, or games that focus on counting, letter recognition, social skills, etc. are the perfect option for preschool screen time.
Another tip: watch along with your children. Studies have shown that toddlers and preschoolers will actually learn more from screen media when their parent is watching with them and is there to answer questions and help them process what they are learning.
At Kids ‘R’ Kids Avalon Park, we love to encourage children to play and explore to assist their learning development. All of our students have access to ABC Mouse and their education games and videos perfect for preschool aged children, and our expansive preschool campus includes a technology room where children can enjoy some screen time while learning and socializing in a productive manner.